Sleep deprivation is an issue that is often overlooked, despite its prevalence. The Center for Disease Control has gone so far as to call insufficient sleep a public health epidemic. The bustle of modern life is pushing people to sleep less in the name of productivity. According to a 2013 study by Gallup, 40% of people get less than the recommended amount of sleep.
Getting the proper amount of sleep cannot be taken for granted. What happens to you when you’re sleep deprived goes beyond just eye-bags and a lot of yawning. Unfortunately, you can’t just make up for a missed sleep over the weekends. It helps to know the effects of sleep deprivation so you can pinpoint the cause of your issues you might be experiencing.
Low Alertness
Research has shown that missing as little as an hour and a half of sleep can make a person less alert.
Higher Chances of Car Accidents
Sleep deprivation can have similar effects to driving under the influence. It actually accounts for over a thousand traffic accidents, injuries and fatalities per year, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Impaired Memory
Along with alertness and reflexes, one’s ability to recall memories and think straight is similarly impaired.
Low Work Productivity
By skipping sleep to work overtime and get more done, you could actually be getting less done. Sleep deprived workers not only have lower energy, but the work they do is still affected thanks to the effects on memory, thinking and alertness.
Bad Manners
Sleep deprivation can set people on edge and make them prone to behave badly and get into arguments both at home and at work. A study from the Rotterdam School of Management states that sleep-related disruptions can cost companies billions in lost productivity!
Health Complications
Not only will a sleep-deprived person have less energy to partake in normal daily activities and exercise, long-term and serious health problems may arise. Chronic sleep deprivation is associated with elevated blood pressure, diabetes, heart failure and stroke. Obesity, depression and decreased libido are also among the complications.
Contact a Sleep Specialist in Jacksonville
If you suspect you’re experiencing the effects of sleep deprivation, contact Jacksonville Sleep Center today to schedule a sleep consultation. We can work with you to help you get the sleep you need. To schedule your consultation, call 904.854.6899 today.
